As is increasingly the case, the Report is highly informative as regards the contemporary drug landscape. In addition, this is complemented by a reduction in explicit political content, a trend that has featured over recent years. Prior to this trend, the Annual Reports tended to be filled with examples of the Board exceeding its mandate. Shortcomings do continue, with the Board often failing to comment or recommend with respect to issues on which it should, and which sit squarely within its mandate. One of the most blatant instances is the neglect of criticism of Russia’s failure to provide opioid substitution therapy (OST). Furthermore, while there is much to be welcomed in the Board’s support for the principles of human rights, it is often expressed in vague language. There is a reluctance to speak out regarding human rights violations, though the explicit critique in August 2016 of the ‘war on drugs’ in the Philippines represents a promising exception.

This website

UN Drug Control

In 2011 the 1961 UN Single Convention on drugs will be in place for 50 years. In 2012 the international drug control system will exist 100 years since the International Opium Convention was signed in 1912 in The Hague. Does it still serve its purpose or is a reform of the UN Drug Conventions needed? This site provides critical background.